IRELAND WILL HOST an Australian “A” team next summer as part of their preparations for the 2013 Ashes.
No venue has yet been decided for the four-day match, which is pencilled in for 14-17 June next year.
Although the bulk of the Aussies’ big hitters will limber up for the Ashes at the ICC Champions Trophy in England, the touring party is expected to contain familiar test faces and could be captained by Ricky Ponting.
Peter Siddle, Nathan Lyon, Ed Cowan and Usman Khawaja are also likely to be involved in the match, which is only the second time the countries have met in a first-class fixture.
“It’s a tremendous boost for all involved with Irish cricket that we’ve secured such a high profile first-class fixture in Ireland,” Cricket Ireland performance director Richard Holdsworth said today.
“The fact that the Australian XI will contain a number of high profile test cricketers means it’s sure to attract a large crowd.
“It will be a great test of our cricketers and I’m sure they will acquit themselves well against opponents who will be determined to put in a strong showing ahead of the Ashes campaign.”
Ireland lost their only other first-class fixture against Australia by five wickets in Rathmines in 1998.
